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From Mongolia to Melbourne
Originally from Mongolia, Sunjidmaa (Suni) Tsogtmagnai had four good reasons for her four-year career break: an international move to Melbourne, language limitations, a young family and a full-time courseload at university. Now she’s snagged her dream role as a Landscape Architect at GHD, with the help of GHD’s Career Relaunch Program. Read on for Suni’s story.
Originally from Mongolia, Sunjidmaa (Suni) Tsogtmagnai had four good reasons for her four-year career break: an international move to Melbourne, language limitations, a young family and a full-time courseload at university.
Before coming to Australia, Suni worked as a landscape designer in Ulan-Bator, Mongolia for four years, in addition to engaging her creativity as a freelance graphic designer. After moving to Australia and having two children, Suni enrolled in a full-time program at Torrens University, but felt her career prospects were limited in her new environment.
Suni says, “I faced so many barriers to returning to the workforce, including not being able to speak English well, time limitations due to my young family and full-time study, and adjusting to a new country. I felt like I would never be able to return to my field of work.”
The opportunity to blossom
Working in landscape architecture in Australia had been at the top of her wish list for a long time, but despite her strong experience in Mongolia, Suni felt completely out of her depth.
“My profession requires complex knowledge about a wide range of different disciplines including civil engineering, maths, plants, architecture and design, but I didn’t know yet how things worked here. The standards, technical terms and even the trees and plants in Australia were so different to what I was used to,” she says.
The Career Relaunch Program provided Suni with opportunity to re-enter her field, along with the support she needed to learn on the job. “GHD gave me a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I was excited to learn new skills from my team members and network with others in my area of expertise.”
Getting it done
As any working parent can attest, balancing family and work effectively can be a challenge. “Weekdays with two children are so hectic! I feel relieved that the program allowed me to work flexible hours,” Suni says.
Following the 10-week Career Relaunch Program, Suni accepted a role as a casual Landscape Architect at GHD, which gives her experience in a variety of projects across Victoria.
“Since the program began, I have worked closely with senior landscape architects on a range of projects.
Currently I am working on a number of landscaping diagrams for the Arden Precinct in North Melbourne. I learn so much from the team every day.”
In the right place
When asked what her greatest career achievement is, Suni says, “I think my greatest achievement is ahead. I am proud of my current achievements, but as my confidence grows, I know I will continue to move forward and make my family proud.”
Suni’s passion for the great outdoors continues beyond the workplace. In her leisure time she enjoys walking in nature and exploring new outdoor spaces where she can discover different plant species and be inspired.
As for the Career Relaunch Program at GHD? “I am so grateful for the opportunity because GHD has an excellent company culture and a cohesive team. I feel like I am in the right place,” says Suni.
About GHD’s Career Relaunch Program
At GHD, we think differently about returning to work after a career break. We offer a 10 week, paid, flexible program with the opportunity and goal of ongoing employment. This program is offered Australia and New Zealand-wide each year.
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